CD Reviews

Another west coast gem!

William Faust | Columbus, Ohio | 12/05/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD, originally a Pacific Jazz issue featuring sessions from 1955 through 1958, is another wonderful compilation of tunes from two of the prime movers of the 1950's west coast jazz scene. The disc is interesting if for no other reason that it's split personality. The first 8 cuts, recorded in 55 and featuring a rhythm section of Hampton Hawes, Red Mitchell and Mel Lewis, is a hard swinging session reminiscent of some of Shorty Rogers' more swingable stuff (ie. Courts the Count). The rest of the CD slows down a bit with some ballads, blues and generally a more low key but tasteful collection of tunes. These additional 7 charts feature changes in the rhythm section but include other west coast notables like Jimmy Rowles and Shelly Manne. While they were recorded later and lack the swinging tempos of the first set, they still represent some of the best of the west coast cool genre. Obviously, Shank and Perkins pull it all together with good chemistry "throughout the years". Highly recommended."